Beaches & Waterfront Activities in Madison, Wisconsin, United States

Madison, United States, Madison, Outdoor & Adventure, Beaches & Waterfront Activities

Beaches & Waterfront Activities in Madison, Wisconsin, United States

1. Tenney Park Beach

A popular urban beach offering swimming, kayaking, and volleyball. The park also hosts a variety of events throughout the summer.
  • Urban Setting: Located in downtown Madison with easy access to restaurants, shops, and attractions.
  • Events & Activities: Offers a variety of events like concerts, yoga classes, and summer festivals.
  • Water Sports: Kayak rentals available for exploring Lake Monona.

2. Olin Park Beach

A tranquil beach along the Yahara River featuring a sandy shore and a fishing pier.
  • Tranquil Setting: A quieter alternative to busier beaches in downtown Madison.
  • Fishing Opportunities: Equipped with a fishing pier for anglers of all ages.
  • Picnic Areas & Grills: Offers picnic areas and grills for a peaceful lunch by the water.

3. Lake Mendota Beach House

A full-service beach facility on Lake Mendota with swimming, boat rentals, and a cafe.
  • Full Service Beach: Includes amenities such as restrooms, showers, and changing rooms.
  • Boat Rentals: Offers kayak, canoe, and paddleboat rentals for exploring the lake.
  • Cafe & Snack Bar: Provides food and drinks to keep you refreshed during your day at the beach.

4. Picnic Point Beach

A scenic beach on Lake Mendota known for its panoramic views and sunsets.
  • Scenic Views: Offers breathtaking views of the lake and surrounding landscape.
  • Sunset Watching: Ideal location for watching beautiful sunsets over Lake Mendota.
  • Quiet & Serene: A less crowded, more secluded beach experience.

5. Marshall Park Beach

A small beach on Lake Monona with a sandy shore and a dock for fishing and boating.
  • Small & Intimate: A more intimate setting compared to larger beaches in the area.
  • Fishing Dock: Equipped with a dock for fishing and boating activities.
  • Scenic Views of the Capitol: Features views of the Wisconsin State Capitol in the distance.

6. James Madison Park Beach

A family-friendly beach on Lake Monona with a playground, sand volleyball court, and boat rentals.
  • Family-Friendly: Offers amenities like a playground for children.
  • Boat Rentals: Includes kayak and paddleboard rentals for exploring the lake.
  • Sand Volleyball Court: A sand volleyball court is available for fun, friendly games.

7. Park Street Beach

A vibrant urban beach with a sandy shore, swimming, and easy access to shops and restaurants.
  • Urban Setting: Located in a lively area of downtown Madison with many shopping and dining options.
  • Swimming Area: Offers designated swimming areas for safety and enjoyment.
  • Community Events: Hosts community events like concerts and movie nights during the summer.

8. Breese Stevens Field Beach

A unique beach located inside a historic soccer stadium with swimming and music events.
  • Historic Setting: Set inside a historic soccer stadium, offering a one-of-a-kind experience.
  • Swimming Area: Features a designated swimming area during the summer months.
  • Music Events: Hosts music events like concerts and festivals, making it a destination for entertainment.

9. Lake Waubesa Beach

A serene beach on Lake Waubesa with fishing, boating, and opportunities for bird watching.
  • Serene Setting: A quieter alternative to the more bustling beaches in downtown Madison.
  • Fishing & Boating: Equipped with a boat ramp and offers opportunities for fishing.
  • Bird Watching: Provides excellent bird watching opportunities due to the diverse wildlife in the area.

10. Starkweather Beach

A peaceful beach along Starkweather Creek with a picnic area and opportunities for canoeing.
  • Peaceful Setting: Offers a more tranquil atmosphere compared to larger beaches.
  • Picnic Area: Features a picnic area for relaxing and enjoying lunch by the water.
  • Canoeing: Offers canoe rentals and access to Starkweather Creek for exploration.

11. Olbrich Beach

A secluded beach at the Olbrich Botanical Gardens, perfect for a tranquil escape.
  • Secluded Setting: Set within the beautiful Olbrich Botanical Gardens, providing a serene atmosphere.
  • Nature & Wildlife: Surrounded by diverse plant and wildlife, offering an opportunity to connect with nature.
  • Botanical Gardens Access: Provides easy access to the Olbrich Botanical Gardens for exploration.

12. Lake Farm Park Beach

A family-oriented beach with a playground, picnic areas, and opportunities for fishing.
  • Family-Friendly: Offers amenities like a playground for children.
  • Fishing Opportunities: Equipped with fishing areas and a boat ramp for boating activities.
  • Picnic Areas: Features picnic areas for relaxing and enjoying meals by the water.

13. Pheasant Branch Conservancy Beach

A scenic beach along Pheasant Branch Creek with hiking trails and wildlife viewing opportunities.
  • Scenic Setting: Located within the beautiful Pheasant Branch Conservancy.
  • Hiking Trails: Offers hiking trails for exploring the surrounding landscape and wildlife.
  • Wildlife Viewing Opportunities: Provides excellent opportunities for observing local wildlife.

14. Mazomanie Beach

A sandy beach on Lake Wisconsin with swimming, fishing, and a concession stand.
  • Sandy Shore: Features a sandy shore for relaxation and playing.
  • Fishing Opportunities: Offers fishing areas for anglers of all ages.
  • Concession Stand: Provides a concession stand for food and drinks during your visit.

15. Devil's Lake State Park Beach

A scenic beach within the Devil's Lake State Park offering swimming, hiking, and rock climbing.
  • Scenic Setting: Located within the stunning Devil's Lake State Park.
  • Hiking Trails: Offers numerous hiking trails for exploring the surrounding landscape.
  • Rock Climbing Opportunities: Known for its rock climbing opportunities, attracting climbers from around the world.